ANTHRAX BACTERIA ON FIRSTBOND

The bacterium Bacillus anthracis is the agent of anthrax. It is primarily the cause of disease in sheep, goats and cattle. However, it may be transferable to humans. The bacteria are immovable rods that remain attached to the ends after division, thus pushing themselves through the substrate. They are extremely heat-resistant in dry conditions and are only killed after one hour at 150 ºC. By inhibiting the body's defence cells, the bacteria can multiply in the tissue and enter the bloodstream. The anthrax pathogens release various toxins that lead to the formation of oedema.

The infection usually occurs in humans. through injured skin or inhalation. After a few hours, a red pustule with a black center develops at the entry point into the skin. Pulmonary anthrax starts suddenly with chills and high fever, if untreated it leads to death, when treated with penicillin the lethality drops to 50% (nearly 0% in the case of skin anthrax).

Transmission Electron Microscope, Enlargement 4,000:1